COMPUTER SCIENCE

Otto Miller Hall
206-281-2140
www.spu.edu/depts/csc

FACULTY:  Creed F Jones, Philip  Prins, Michael H Tindall, Elaine V Weltz

Computer science is the discipline that studies the representation, storage, and transformation of information utilizing automatic computing machines. The computer scientist is interested in developing computer software and hardware to analyze data and solve problems. In addition to understanding the organization and operation of modern computer systems, knowledge of the problems and applications in a related discipline is highly recommended.

The Department of Computer Science is dedicated to educating and preparing students for a variety of careers in business, scientific, and engineering computing. We seek to provide a broad program of studies in theoretical and applied computer science informed by a Christian worldview, graduating students who are equipped for continued professional development and service.

Both bachelor of science (B.S.) and more application-oriented bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree options are available. A variety of computing equipment is available to the University to support coursework and independent study activities. A fiber-optic Ethernet network links all parts of the campus computing environment. The open student laboratory contains about 30 Pentium/Athlon Windows PC systems, each connected to the Ethernet and with access to printers and appropriate software packages.

It is recommended that students majoring in computer science obtain their own Windows-compatible machine to gain the full experience of configuring and maintaining a computer system. A suitable system would be based on a fast Pentium or Athlon processor with 512 MB memory, a 100 GB hard drive, ethernet (or modem) and printer. Software should include Windows XP, Microsoft Visual Studio.NET, Microsoft Word, and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Some courses may require other software that will be available in the student laboratory or for separate purchase. Most recommended software is available with educational pricing through the Computer and Information Systems Department or at the SPU Bookstore.

Preliminary Prerequisites
High school pre-calculus or math analysis is required.

Admission and GPA Requirement
A minimum 2.5 GPA (cumulative in all courses required for the major taken at SPU) is required for admission to the major. Additionally, a minimum 2.0 (C grade) must be earned in CSC 2430, and a minimum 1.7 (C- grade) must be earned in each other course required for the major.

Recommended for all degree options, because writing and communication skills are important for computer scientists, the following courses are recommended for all students majoring or minoring in computer science: ENG 3205 Writing in the Professions and COM 1101 Introduction to Interpersonal Communications.

Requirements for the B.S. in Computer Science Major
106 credits; 48 upper-division.
Click the link above for requirements, or click here for a summary of degree requirements. The B.S. major is the traditional degree in computer science. It provides preparation for graduate studies or professional careers in computer science, with an emphasis on scientific and engineering foundations.

Requirements for the B.A. in Computer Science Major
Click here for a summary of degree requirements. The B.A. major is an applications-oriented degree in computer science. Each option provides preparation for professional careers in computing, with a specific emphasis on an area of applications.

B.A. — Business Option
85 credits; 45 upper-division. Refer to chart above.
This option combines preparation in the core areas of computer science with additional emphasis on business organizations, accounting, finance, and marketing.

B.A. — Computer Systems Option
83 credits; 43 upper-division. Refer to chart above.
This option provides a thorough preparation in the topics and applications of computer science.

B.A. — Computer and Information Technology Degree Completion Option
65 credits plus specialization; 35 upper-division in core.
This option combines preparation in the core areas of computer science with an approved CIT specialization. It is designed for students who have already completed appropriate computer-related technical certifications or associates degrees. See your computer science advisor for details.

Related Degree Programs
B.S. in Computational Mathematics. Combines computational and applied mathematics with a strong base in computer science. For more information, refer to the information under Mathematics.

B.S. in Computer Engineering. Combines strong bases in computer science, digital electronics, and engineering. For more information, refer to the information in Engineering.

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